Viren Singh
Counselling Therapist
- Languages: English, Hindi
- Where: Surrey · Online
Reflective Listening
Communication is a key component of any relationship, and reflective listening is a powerful tool that can help improve communication and strengthen relationships. In this blog post, we will explore what reflective listening is, how it works, and how it can benefit you and your relationships.
- 1 counsellor trained
- In person or online
How it works
What a course of reflective listening looks likeHow it works
Early on
Notice how you listen
You and your counsellor look at what happens when you talk with someone close to you, such as jumping in with advice or planning your reply while they speak.
As you go
Practise reflecting back
In session, one person speaks and the other says back what they heard in their own words. Then they check: 'Did I get that right?'
Over time
Use it in daily life
You try the skill at home or work between sessions and bring back what felt hard. You and your counsellor decide together how long to keep going.
Reflective listening may suit you if you
- Often feel unheard in conversations with people close to you
- Want to argue less and understand each other more
- Like learning a practical skill you can use every day
- Tend to give advice or defend yourself before you listen
- Want to practise together as a couple or family
- Want to name feelings more clearly, yours and others'
Something else may fit better if you
- Are in crisis right now: call or text 9-8-8
- Feel unsafe or afraid around the person you would practise with
- Mainly want to change unhelpful thought patterns
- Want quick, goal-focused steps more than communication practice
Not sure? A free consultation can help you choose.
Where
Reflective listening in person in Surrey, or onlineWhere
About
More about reflective listening
Reflective Listening: What It Is and How It Can Help Improve Your Relationships
Communication is a key component of any relationship, and reflective listening is a powerful tool that can help improve communication and strengthen relationships. In this blog post, we will explore what reflective listening is, how it works, and how it can benefit you and your relationships.
What is Reflective Listening?
Reflective Listening is a communication technique developed through the work of psychologist Carl Rogers. It helps people listen with empathy, understand others more deeply, and build stronger relationships. At No Fear Counselling, we use this approach to improve communication, reduce conflict, and strengthen personal and professional relationships.
When people feel heard and understood, they are more likely to build trust and resolve disagreements in healthy ways. This communication skill creates stronger connections and supports emotional well-being.
How Does Reflective Listening Work?
It involves several steps:
- Pay attention: Give the speaker your full attention and focus on what they are saying.
- Reflect back: Repeat or rephrase what the speaker said to show that you are listening and to ensure that you understood correctly.
- Clarify: Ask questions to clarify any misunderstandings or to get more information.
- Empathize: Show empathy and understanding by acknowledging the speaker's feelings and emotions.
- Respond: Respond with your own thoughts or feelings, using "I" statements to express how you feel.
Benefits of Reflective Listening
Research shows that Reflective Listening improves communication and strengthens relationships in many settings, including couples, families, and workplaces. This communication technique helps people understand each other better and reduces misunderstandings. Studies published in the Journal of Marriage and Family Therapy found that it improves relationship satisfaction and communication. Another study in the Journal of Family Psychology showed that this approach increases closeness, empathy, and understanding between partners.
How No Fear Counselling Can Help
At No Fear Counselling, we can help you improve your communication skills through reflective listening techniques. Our licensed therapists can teach you how to actively listen, reflect back, and empathize with others, leading to more meaningful and fulfilling relationships. Whether you're struggling with communication in your personal or professional life, we can help you develop the skills you need to communicate effectively.
Conclusion
Reflective listening is a powerful communication tool that can help improve your relationships and increase feelings of closeness and understanding. Reflective listening involves actively listening, reflecting back what you heard, clarifying any misunderstandings, empathizing with the speaker, and responding with your own thoughts or feelings.
No Fear Counselling offers Reflective Listening in Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond, Coquitlam, Langley, Victoria, Kelowna, Penticton, as well as secure online counselling services across Canada.
If you're interested in learning more about reflective listening and how it can help improve your relationships, schedule a consultation with our licensed therapists at No Fear Counselling today. Visit our contact page at www.nofearcounselling.com/contact or call us at (778) 288-8361. Take the first step towards better communication and more meaningful relationships!
Counsellors trained in reflective listeningTrained in reflective listening
FAQs
Common questions about reflective listeningCommon questions
Can't find your answer? Ask us a question.
Reflective listening is a way of listening where you say back what you heard, in your own words, so the other person knows you understood. In counselling, your counsellor shows you the skill and helps you practise it, for example: 'It sounds like you felt left out when the plans changed.' Many people find it can slow down tense talks and help both people feel heard.
Most sessions mix short practice with talking about real moments from your week. You might pick a small topic, take turns speaking and reflecting, and notice when you start to interrupt or defend yourself. Your counsellor gently points out what helped and what got in the way. You can share as much or as little as you like.
Yes, you can come on your own, with a partner, or with family members. Practising together often helps, because each person gets to feel what it is like to be truly heard. If talking together feels unsafe, tell your counsellor, who can suggest meeting one on one instead.
Reflective listening is a communication skill, while emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is a fuller approach for couples that looks at the emotional bond and the patterns between partners. Your counsellor may use reflective listening as one part of EFT, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or solution-focused therapy. You can ask your counsellor which mix suits your goals.
Yes, you can meet online from anywhere in BC, or in person if you prefer. Reflective listening is mostly talking and listening, so it often fits well by video, whether a partner sits beside you or joins from another place. Our intake team suggests counsellors who fit what you need, your language, your budget and where you want to meet.